Lead exposure is dangerous for children because it often presents no early symptoms while causing serious health problems. Even low levels of lead in a child’s blood can result in learning disabilities, developmental delays, and permanent brain damage. For this reason, New York State recommends that children should receive lead testing at ages 1 and 2.
Despite these recommendations, data from Putnam County’s 2025 community health assessment, known as the CHA, shows a three-year decline in the rate of children being tested for lead. In fact, 58 percent of children born in 2019 did not receive both lead tests, well below the state goal of 70 percent.
Once a child has been tested and identified with high lead levels, the Health Department’s environmental and nursing staff work with families to identify the source of lead poisoning and implement interventions to lower the levels. Families that are renting, the health department staff can even advocate for them with the landlord.
Angelica Capetillo, a mother whose son had an elevated blood lead level, talked about her experience working with Daniel Reis, a public health sanitarian at the Health Department.
“The pediatrician’s office referred us to the Health Department, and Danny called to see if we were comfortable with their team visiting and to check the house and items like pots, pans, and toys—things that could possibly have lead,” she said.
Then Reis arrived, he checked the walls, doorways, and windows, and found lead.
“Then he reached out to the landlord to fix the issue,” said Capetillo. “And that happened quickly. The landlord took care of everything within two months. Afterwards, Danny came back for another assessment to make sure there were no traces of lead dust. He did a very thorough job."
Lead is a tasteless and odorless element found in the earth, so it is easy to miss. But it can contaminate the air, food, water, and even homes. Homes built before the 1978 ban on lead-based paint pose a greater risk for lead exposure, and many homes in Putnam were built before this ban. When paint chips or peels or is disturbed during household renovations during the spring or other times, children can easily ingest it.
Children face a greater risk because their bodies are still developing and able to absorb more lead than adults. Lead exposure can damage the brain and nervous system, causing slowed growth, speech and hearing problems, learning and behavioral challenges, and reduced IQ.
Capetillo’s journey did not end with a clean home reassessment. As a result of her encounter with the environmental staff, she was referred to and evaluated by the Early Intervention Program. Her son now receives the needed services for his speech development.
Reflecting on her experience, Capetillo encouraged other parents in Putnam County to stay vigilant.
“In hindsight, I’d do routine lead testing every single time it is offered by the pediatrician,” she said. “And watch out for toys— dollar store toys, pots, pans, old China and vintage items.”
For more information about lead testing and prevention, speak with your child’s healthcare provider or contact the Putnam County Health Department.
Article provided by the Putnam County Health Department
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